Weyburn's Kathryn Groshong has proven that age does not necessarily have to be a reason to give up sports. From Aug. 27 to 30, the 88-year-old participated in the Canada 55-plus Senior Games in Sherwood Park, Alta.
Weyburn's Kathryn Groshong has proven that age does not necessarily have to be a reason to give up sports. From Aug. 27 to 30, the 88-year-old participated in the Canada 55-plus Senior Games in Sherwood Park, Alta., bringing home two gold medals, one silver and one bronze in swimming events. The games feature 39 different activities, including hockey, curling, badmintion, and track and field, as well as other activities such as scrabble, card games and art activities. Over 1,700 people attended the event, which is held every two years.
Groshong competed in the 85+ Women's Division, which includes athletes from 85 to 90 years of age. Groshong participated in the 50 meter and 100 meter freestyle swim, placing gold in both events with times of 2:59 and 4:56, respectively. In the 100 meter backstroke, Groshong won silver with a time of 6:42 and won bronze in the 50 meter backstroke with a time of 3:18.
"My husband, Fred, was with me this year and has been to all of the games I've gone to. In 2004 he came with me to Whitehorse, Yuk., and again in 2006 to Portage La Prairie, Man., as well as many other provincial Saskatchewan Senior Fitness Association Games leading up to the national competitions," said Groshong.
"I would also like to thank my children and friends who made a generous contribution with transportation to the games this year."
A year a half ago, Groshong broke her right shoulder and had to undergo physiotherapy in order to regain her strength.
"One of the things my physiotherapist recommended was swimming and other activities in the pool to help regain the strength in my right arm. I have to say that the pool sessions really helped. The Care-a-Van Society transportation was great too, they were always there to ensure that I got to the pool," said Groshong.
Currently, Groshong continues to stay active and is looking forward to the next Canada 55-plus Senior Games, which will be held in Brampton, Ont., in 2016.
